01 Dec 2016
The Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association (APPEA) welcomes the release today of the Independent Review of the GasFields Commission Queensland.
APPEA Chief Executive Dr Malcolm Roberts said the review confirmed the important role of the Commission in promoting win-win solutions for regional communities and Queensland’s growing natural gas industry.
“The Commission is a trusted, independent body which has helped the communication between communities, the industry and governments,” Dr Roberts said.
“The result has been better mutual understanding and co-operative work to maximize the benefits to local communities.
“It’s pleasing to see the Commission will continue to serve regional communities in this capacity.”
Dr Roberts said that while the review’s recommendations would require assessment, Queensland was clearly leading the way in showing how agriculture and natural gas can prosper alongside each other, to everyone’s benefit.
He said the Queensland approach was a model for any State that wished to grow its economy, generate new regional jobs, and ensure there was a reliable and affordable energy supply.
“APPEA and its members look forward to working with the Queensland Government and other stakeholders in implementing the report’s recommendations.”
Dr Roberts thanked the outgoing Commissioners John Cotter, Don Stiller, Ray Brown, Shane Charles, and Professor Steven Raine for the huge contribution they have made to regional Queensland.
“At times, this was a tough role for the Commissioners but they proved more than equal to the challenge,” he said.
“I would like to pay particular tribute to John Cotter who, as chairman, provided outstanding leadership throughout the Commission’s early years.” Download PDF
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